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Mutual Broadcasting System, South Palm Canyon Drive & Mesquite, Palm Springs, CA (2026)

04/06/2026

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, the tables turn as legendary Coachella Valley journalist Bruce Fessier steps in as guest host to celebrate the podcast’s 150th episode milestone. What follows is a lively, heartfelt, and often hilarious look back at three years of unforgettable conversations, iconic guests, and behind-the-scenes moments that defined the show. From celebrity encounters and emotional interviews to unexpected revelations and laugh-out-loud stories, the hosts, guest episode host and executive producer John McMullen on what makes the podcast unique—authentic, unscripted dialogue with fascinating people. They revisit standout episodes, discuss the evolution of the show, and explore the magic of letting conversations unfold naturally. Along the way, they share insights into storytelling, interviewing, and the rich cultural fabric of the Coachella Valley. It’s a celebration of connection, curiosity, and the people who make every episode memorable.

Access Big Conversations, Little Bar direct from our website www.BigConversationsLittleBar.com or through our podcast portal partners!

Takeaways:
• The podcast celebrates its milestone 150th episode after three years.
• Authentic, unscripted conversations are the show’s defining strength.
• The Coachella Valley is filled with fascinating, untold personal stories.
• Great interviews come from listening, not just asking questions.
• Some of the best moments happen when guests go off-script.
• High-profile guests often become the most relatable in conversation.
• The show has built credibility through organic guest connections.
• There’s no shortage of future stories or compelling guests to feature.

03/31/2026

BigConversationsLittleBar.com

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, Patrick sits down solo with media entrepreneur and digital thinker Baratunde Thurston for a wide-ranging, deeply human conversation about technology, identity, and community. Randy is away due to a family loss on this episode. The discussion takes on an intimate tone as Baratunde shares his perspective on artificial intelligence, warning not of machines taking over—but of humans becoming too machine-like. He explores how we can live well with technology while preserving meaning, connection, and democracy. The conversation also dives into his upbringing in Washington, D.C., his influential mother, and the experiences that shaped his bestselling book How to Be Black. From working at The Onion to building new media ventures, Baratunde reflects on storytelling, culture, and the responsibility we all share in shaping the future together.

Takeaways:
• AI’s greatest risk is humans losing humanity, not machines taking over
• Technology should enhance life—not replace meaningful experiences
• AI reflects human input, including both our best and worst traits
• Community involvement is essential in shaping AI’s future
• Storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and understanding
• Identity is complex and cannot be defined by a single narrative
• Early life experiences deeply shape perspective and purpose
• Collaboration and curiosity drive innovation and progress

03/25/2026

A powerful conversation on music, recovery, and helping the unhoused—Eric Frankson shares with Patrick Evans & Randy Florence how small acts of kindness can change lives across the Coachella Valley on Big Conversations, Little Bar. Inspiring, real, and deeply human. Listen to this episode at www.bigconversationslittlebar.com

03/23/2026

23 MAR 2026 | Beyond Oil, Global Supply Chain Hits from the Strait of Hormuz Crisis

A growing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz is triggering far more than an oil disruption—it’s reshaping global supply chains in multiple commodities in unexpected and dangerous ways. In this episode, we examine how escalating conflict in the Middle East has choked one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, with ripple effects far beyond oil. From liquefied natural gas disruptions in Qatar to fertilizer shortages threatening global food production, the impacts are cascading across industries. Even helium—critical to semiconductor manufacturing—has been severely affected, raising alarms for the tech sector. Hal breaks down how attacks on key infrastructure, combined with restricted shipping lanes, are creating a perfect storm of economic risk. While some regions may be insulated in the short term, others face immediate and severe consequences. This is not just an energy story—it’s a global supply chain emergency with long-term strategic implications. And it is the focus this week on STRAT with retired Marine Intelligence Officer and host Hal Kempfer.

Takeaways:
• The Strait of Hormuz disruption impacts far more than oil markets
• LNG infrastructure attacks have removed major global supply capacity
• Qatar’s export losses could take years to fully recover
• Fertilizer shortages threaten global agriculture and food security
• Prices for fertilizer have surged ahead of critical planting seasons
• Helium shortages are disrupting semiconductor manufacturing globally
• Asia faces the most immediate and severe economic consequences
• Supply chain shocks may drive inflation and long-term instability

Listen or view at STRATpodcast.com

03/17/2026

Hank Plante, News Professional | Legendary Journalist Reflects on Truth, Courage, and Change
On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, award-winning journalist Hank Plante shares an extraordinary career journey from copy boy at The Washington Post to one of television news’ most respected voices. He reflects on covering the AIDS crisis in San Francisco, where his reporting helped inform and save lives during one of America’s most challenging public health emergencies. The conversation dives into unforgettable interviews with presidents, political icons, and cultural figures, revealing the art of asking tough questions and earning trust. Plante also opens up about being one of the first openly gay TV reporters, the personal toll of the AIDS epidemic, and how journalism has changed over the decades. With humor, honesty, and wisdom, this episode offers a powerful look at storytelling, integrity, and the enduring importance of truth in media and society today.

www.BigConversationsLittleBar.com

Takeaways:
• Journalism careers can begin in unexpected ways and evolve quickly
• The AIDS crisis coverage required courage, compassion, and persistence
• Silence in interviews can reveal deeper truths than questions
• Great reporters anticipate and represent the audience’s concerns
• Personal identity can shape and strengthen journalistic perspective
• Building trust is essential for securing impactful interviews
• Media has shifted from fact-based reporting to opinion-driven content
• Confidence often comes from overcoming personal struggles

03/17/2026

STRAT | 17 MAR 26 | Getting it Straight on the Strait of Hormuz
Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have reached a critical point, placing one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints under severe strain. This episode of STRAT with retired Marine Intelligence Officer Hal Kempfer examines how escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States, and regional actors is disrupting global oil and natural gas flows. With nearly 20% of the world’s energy supply passing through this narrow waterway, even limited interference has far-reaching economic consequences. We break down the geography, military dynamics, and strategic calculations shaping events, including Iran’s use of drones, missiles, and potential sea mines. The discussion also explores alternative export routes through Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and why they cannot fully offset disruptions. Finally, we analyze the broader implications of air dominance, coalition naval responses, and the long-term viability of Iran’s regime. As oil prices surge and geopolitical risks intensify, understanding the Strait’s role has never been more urgent. www.STRATpodcast.com

Takeaways:
• The Strait of Hormuz carries about 20% of global energy supplies
• Iran’s attacks are disrupting critical oil and gas shipping routes
• Sea mines remain the most dangerous escalation risk in the strait
• Alternate pipelines cannot fully replace Hormuz shipping capacity
• U.S. and allies are pursuing naval escorts to secure transit
• Air dominance has significantly reduced Iran’s strike capabilities
• Iran’s economy depends heavily on vulnerable oil export infrastructure
• Prolonged disruption could drive oil prices well above $100

03/10/2026

On this episode of STRAT, retired Marine intelligence officer LtCol. Hal Kempfer examines major geopolitical developments reshaping the Western Hemisphere. The discussion begins with the deteriorating situation in Cuba, where economic collapse, power shortages, and extreme poverty are placing enormous pressure on the communist regime. Kempfer explores President Trump’s statements that the United States is negotiating a significant economic agreement with Cuban leadership that could redefine relations between the two countries after decades of hostility. The episode also analyzes the newly announced “Shield of the Americas” initiative, a multinational coalition designed to combat drug cartels and transnational criminal networks throughout Latin America. With participation from numerous regional governments, the initiative reflects a more aggressive strategy aimed at dismantling cartel influence and strengthening U.S. partnerships across the hemisphere. Kempfer also explains how these moves fit into a broader strategic effort to counter China’s growing influence while securing key economic resources and stabilizing the region.

Takeaways:
• Cuba’s economic crisis has intensified due to energy shortages, poverty, and hurricane damage.
• President Trump has discussed negotiations between the United States and Cuban leadership.
• Venezuela’s shifting political situation has altered the balance of power in the region.
• The United States is expanding influence through economic and security partnerships.
• The new “Shield of the Americas” coalition focuses on combating drug cartels.
• At least 17 countries have joined the new counter-cartel coalition initiative.
• Strategic cooperation with regional governments reflects a pragmatic geopolitical approach.
• U.S. actions also aim to limit China’s economic and political influence in the Western Hemisphere.

03/09/2026

On this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar with Patrick Evans and Randy Florence, music photographer Jimmy Steinfeldt shares the incredible journey that took him from a simple Minolta camera to photographing some of the biggest legends in rock and entertainment. Jimmy explains how a cross-country trip sparked his passion for photography and led him into the electrifying world of concert photography. Over the decades he captured unforgettable images of artists like Prince, Keith Richards, Rod Stewart, Michael Jackson, and Frank Sinatra. Jimmy also recounts remarkable behind-the-scenes stories—driving Johnny Cash to a photo shoot, photographing the night Prince recorded Purple Rain, and watching fireworks beside Rod Stewart after a show. The conversation explores his career documenting music history, his acclaimed book Rock and Roll Lens, and his upcoming photography exhibit featuring iconic artists. With humor, nostalgia, and unforgettable stories, Jimmy reveals how timing, persistence, and passion helped him turn a love of music into a legendary photographic career.

Takeaways:
• Jimmy Steinfeldt discovered photography after buying a camera for a cross-country road trip.
• His love of music naturally led him to photographing concerts.
• Early photos appeared in local magazines before landing national publications like Spin.
• He captured historic moments including Prince’s Purple Rain performance.
• Jimmy photographed legendary artists including Keith Richards, Rod Stewart, Michael Jackson, and Frank Sinatra.
• He has published a book titled Rock and Roll Lens featuring photos and stories from his career.
• Many of his images are distributed worldwide through Getty Images.
• His upcoming exhibit with photographer Harry Langdon highlights iconic rock photography.

03/09/2026

On this episode, Hal Kempfer examines the quickly evolving war across the Middle East following U.S. and Israeli strikes and the wave of Iranian retaliation that has spread across the region. Tehran has launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and thousands of drones at military and civilian targets across multiple countries, while proxy forces such as Hezbollah and Iraqi Shiite militias expand the conflict further. Kempfer analyzes the declining rate of Iranian missile launches, the strategic impact of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran’s missile infrastructure, and the growing vulnerability of Iran’s underground “missile cities.” He explains how air superiority could fundamentally change the next phase of the conflict, potentially shifting the campaign from airpower to targeted special operations raids designed to destroy critical facilities. The discussion also explores how such operations could weaken the Iranian regime and potentially reshape the geopolitical balance of the Middle East.

Takeaways:
• Iranian retaliation has expanded the conflict across the Middle East and into parts of Europe and Central Asia.
• Hezbollah and Shiite militias are acting as Iranian proxy forces, increasing regional instability.
• Iran has launched over 500 ballistic missiles and more than 2,000 drones during the current conflict.
• Missile and drone launch rates have sharply declined due to effective U.S. and Israeli strikes.
• Iran’s underground “missile cities” were designed to protect weapons but may now be strategic vulnerabilities.
• Achieving air supremacy could enable precision raids by special operations forces against these facilities.
• Amphibious and special operations raids may target coastal missile sites and naval assets.
• Successful raids could weaken the regime’s credibility and potentially spark internal political change in Iran.

03/02/2026

From small-town beginnings to Hollywood impact, filmmaker Ron Nyswaner shares powerful stories behind Philadelphia, Homeland, and more. A candid, emotional, and inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss. Listen to this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar from Mutual Broadcasting System at www.bigconversationslittlebar.com

Takeaways:
• A chance connection launched a life-changing Hollywood career
• Mentorship played a pivotal role in early success
• Philadelphia was created with intention and courage
• The entertainment industry has become more risk-averse
• Passion, not algorithms, drives meaningful storytelling
• Homeland’s writers’ room demanded speed and sharp thinking
• Personal loss and sobriety shaped the memoir deeply
• Gratitude, not ego, defines a lasting creative career

02/23/2026

From Melbourne stages to Palm Springs spotlights, Miss Jane Guy shares hilarious showbiz stories, tap dance roots, and the chaos behind Skippy and Bitsy. A fun, fast-paced conversation you won’t want to miss. Listen to this episode at www.bigconversationslittlebar.com

02/13/2026

Oil is no longer just an energy commodity—it’s a geopolitical weapon. From Russia and Iran to Cuba and China, global power dynamics are shifting fast. This episode breaks down why oil strategy now shapes world events. www.stratpodcast.com

Takeaways:
• Oil prices are being actively shaped by U.S.-led strategy
• Brent and WTI benchmarks reveal critical geopolitical signals
• Russia’s oil revenues are collapsing under sanctions pressure
• Tanker seizures are disrupting sanctioned oil supply chains
• The Strait of Hormuz remains a major global choke point
• Cuba faces an unprecedented fuel collapse and instability
• China’s reliance on discounted crude is becoming a liability
• Energy pressure may accelerate regime change scenarios

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